Bays Mountain Park unveils new interactive exhibit, diorama
Bays Mountain Park is excited to announce the unveiling of a new, interactive exhibit in the Nature Center.
The exhibit is titled Discover Our Appalachian Highlands Home and features a large lake diorama with various mammals, reptiles, birds and aquatic life native to our region. The exhibit also includes information panels and interactive sensory stations.
“Our region is a landscape of resilience, balance, and deep ecological connections—where forests, waterways, and wildlife have evolved together in a dynamic and interdependent system,” said Park Manager Megan Krager. “Our new exhibit is designed to bring this story to life, offering visitors an immersive experience that fosters appreciation, understanding, and stewardship of our unique region.”
Park staff began developing the concept and design for the new exhibit about a year ago, with construction starting on the $53,000 project this past March. Exhibits Designer Cassy Rose designed the exhibit and along with Exhibit Supervisor Allen Davis, the two completed the diorama last week.
The diorama features many animals from our region, including black bear, turkey, chipmunk, beaver, blue heron, coyote, raccoon, bobcat, woodpecker and otter. Children can also crawl into the beaver lodge and look at the animals from beneath the water.
New sensory stations have been installed where visitors can feel the difference between six different types of fur, touch various types of replica mammal scat and smell the scents of the beaver, raccoon and white-tailed deer.
“This new exhibit is designed to captivate children and adults alike, making ecological concepts relatable and inspiring,” said Exhibits Designer Cassy Rose. “By including Interactive components—such as touchable models, scent stations, and sound displays—our new exhibit will ensure an inclusive experience for visitors of all abilities.”
For more information about Bays Mountain Park and its programs, events and activities, visit www.baysmountain.com.
